The Township of Alfred and Plantagenet partnered with the Burundian community of Wendover to host a Burundian Discovery Night at the Lucien-Delorme Community Centre on Saturday, February 7. The sold-out event drew more than 300 participants eager to experience Burundian culture, cuisine, and traditional performances.
Township of Alfred and Plantagenet Community and Cultural Activities Coordinator Geneviève Souligny said that Wendover is home to more than 30 Burundian families, with the first arriving in the region in 2020. Burundi is located in central Africa and shares borders with the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, and Tanzania.
Everything on display was handmade and showcased Burundian culture and aesthetics. These included handwoven baskets, gift trays, and beverage-serving containers.
The sold-out crowd was captivated by traditional Burundian drumming and dance, as powerful rhythms reverberated throughout the community centre.
The event included numerous dance numbers, live percussion and vocalists, educational posters highlighting Burundian culture, and traditional garments worn by members of the Burundian community.
Families eager to dance the night away did so to authentic Burundian music provided by a DJ.
